Solvay is expanding the capacity of its Shandong Huatai Interox chemical site in China. Building on its existing partnership with Huatai Chemical, the strategic alliance will enable the site to produce 48 kilotons of photovoltaic-grade hydrogen peroxide annually by 2025. The strategic investment will help Solvay efficiently meet the rising demand from the photovoltaic industry, further supporting the growth of the renewable energy sector in Northern China.
Solar panels harness the power of photovoltaic cells to transform sunlight into electrical energy. Throughout their manufacturing, the cells are meticulously cleaned through several stages. Here, hydrogen peroxide plays a crucial role as a powerful oxidising agent in the cleaning solution. Its appeal lies in its ability to dissociate into water and oxygen, making it an environmentally friendly choice for the cleaning process. The use of high-quality hydrogen peroxide is essential to enhance the performance of photovoltaic cells, which is a key element in ensuring the optimal conversion efficiency of solar panels.
“In alignment with China’s ambitious carbon neutrality targets, our collaboration positions Solvay as a key contributor. Leveraging cutting-edge technologies and building on our established presence in the high-purity hydrogen peroxide market, this strategic partnership capitalizes on the rapid expansion of China’s photovoltaic market,” said Philippe Kehren, Solvay CEO. Kehren added, “The project highlights our commitment to sustainability and strengthens our capability to secure a more significant share of the thriving Chinese market, further enhancing our well-established industrial presence in the region”.
“Our joint venture with Solvay is a testament to our commitment to innovation and sustainability. The expansion is not just about increasing capacity; it’s about contributing significantly to China’s carbon neutrality goals and the photovoltaic industry’s growth. By boosting our site’s capability, we are not only meeting the demands of a rapidly evolving market, but also reinforcing our position as a key player in the renewable energy sector,” said Wang Yukang, Chairman, Huatai Chemicals Group.
As per the press release, Solar panels rely on photovoltaic cells to convert solar energy into electricity. During the production process, these cells undergo multiple washes, and hydrogen peroxide, a powerful oxidizing agent, is a vital component in the cleaning solution. Its appeal lies in its ability to dissociate into water and oxygen, making it an environmentally friendly choice for the cleaning fluid. The use of high-quality hydrogen peroxide is paramount in enhancing the output of photovoltaic cells, a critical factor in ensuring the optimal conversion efficiency of solar panels.
